Messi's lawyers ready for legal battle after tax evasion claims

By Stefan Coerts

The Barcelona star's legal representatives have not been notified of any complaint, but have insisted they will vehemently defend the forward's rights.

Lionel Messi's legal and fiscal council Angel Juarez has stressed the Barcelona star has not been notified that a complaint has been filed over his alleged tax fraud, and added that they are ready for a potential legal battle with the Spanish tax authorities.

Prosecutor Raquel Amado is investigating claims that the Argentine and his father have avoided paying the charges due from sales of the 25-year-old's image rights by operating through companies based outside of the country and filed a complaint with the courthouse in the Gava district of Barcelona on Wednesday.

"We'd like to express our surprise with the news published by several media outlets. Neither us, nor our client has received any notification from the prosecutor in relation to what has been reported," a statement signed by Juarez reads. "As his legal and fiscal council, we will take all the appropriate legal action against the complaint of the prosecutor and we are confident that justice will prevail."

Under Spanish law, Messi could face a maximum penalty of six years in prison if found guilty.